Following a disappointing performance against the Phoenix Suns, NBA analyst Chris Broussard offered advice to Deandre Ayton, urging the Los Angeles Lakers center to emulate Clint Capela’s approach on the court. Ayton had recently drawn criticism after his viral remark, “I’m not no Clint Capela,” during an interview with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, where he discussed his role on the Lakers.
Capela, now a backup big man for the Houston Rockets, made his name as a high-energy rim-runner and lob-catching threat, playing a key role in boosting his team’s offense. Broussard suggested that Ayton could benefit from adopting a similar style to increase his impact for the Lakers.
Details of Ayton’s Recent Struggles and The Lakers’ Challenges
Against the Suns, Ayton managed only two points in 23 minutes, shooting 1-for-3 from the field and grabbing four rebounds. Despite Luka Dončić’s 41-point performance leading a valiant comeback, the Lakers fell 113-110. This loss marked the third consecutive defeat for Los Angeles, putting them at risk of dropping into the play-in tournament.
Ayton’s inconsistency has been a concern since joining the Lakers. While not expected to be the team’s primary scorer, his average of 13.0 points and 8.4 rebounds per game has fluctuated, limiting his overall effectiveness. The Lakers face mounting pressure to improve both individually and as a team to secure a better postseason standing.
Expert Opinions Support Potential for Growth
On FS1’s First Things First, Chris Broussard defended Ayton, stating,
“The dude is talented. He ain’t the problem with the Lakers, I’ll tell you that. He could be a part of the answer going forward if he gets it right.”
Broussard emphasized that Ayton’s talent is undeniable and pointed to Capela’s veteran example as a blueprint for enhancing his performance.
Ayton was brought into the Lakers lineup to complement Luka Dončić’s playmaking abilities, but his uneven performances have hampered the team’s overall cohesion. Broussard’s advice implies that focusing on energy plays and rim-running—hallmarks of Capela’s game—could unlock Ayton’s potential and help stabilize the Lakers’ frontcourt.
Team Dynamics Highlighted by Teammates’ Comments
In the same interview with McMenamin, Marcus Smart, a seasoned guard and teammate, shared encouraging yet honest feedback about Ayton’s current state. Smart said,
“He definitely could be better; we all could,”
and added,
“But the thing I love about it is he understands it, and he’s working. We are all trying to figure it out; this is new to everybody. He’s doing his best, but he understands it’s another notch that we need him to go to.”
The support from Smart indicates that Ayton is aware of the adjustments he must make, and he is actively committed to improving. This understanding is crucial as the Lakers seek to reverse their losing streak and solidify their standing in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
Outlook for Ayton and the Lakers Moving Forward
With the Lakers currently struggling to maintain consistency, Ayton’s development remains a critical factor in their overall success. If he can channel Capela’s intensity and role as a dynamic team player, Ayton may provide the missing ingredient for Los Angeles to regain momentum.
The team’s ability to adapt and enhance its chemistry will determine whether it can extend its season beyond the play-in round and make a meaningful postseason run. For Ayton, embracing a more aggressive, team-centric playing style could be key to establishing himself as a vital contributor alongside stars like Dončić.
“The dude is talented. He ain’t the problem with the Lakers, I’ll tell you that. He could be a part of the answer going forward if he gets it right.”@Chris_Broussard thinks Deandre Ayton needs to try and play like Clint Capela to establish himself: pic.twitter.com/fMyJgAEx8W
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) February 27, 2026
